County of Brant Public Library Delivers Over $15 Million in Value to the Community

Media Release

Paris, ON - In a groundbreaking study just released, the County of Brant Public Library (CBPL) has been revealed to have provided an impressive economic value of $15,659,046 80 to the community in 2023. This equates to a remarkable return on investment of $6.37 for every municipal dollar allocated to the Library.

The meticulously crafted report, titled "Valuing the County of Brant Public Library," delved into all facets of library services, ranging from engaging storytimes to the digital realm of ebooks and the cherished physical spaces Through a thorough examination, the study assigned a dollar value to each service category. The calculated Social Return on Investment (SROI) stands at an astonishing $396.69 per resident or $1,059.62 per household.

Kelly Bernstein, the Library's CEO, emphasized, "Library services may be freely accessible, but they are by no means devoid of cost or value. Libraries are sustained by the tax contributions of local residents and businesses, and these findings affirm that each dollar invested in the County of Brant Public Library yields substantial returns, enriching the quality of life while fostering economic and social advantages "

The methodology employed for this insightful study was crafted by the esteemed NORDIK Institute, Lakehead University, and the Ontario Library Service. Comparative market values sourced from the private sector were meticulously applied to library usage statistics across seven pivotal areas: education, culture, inclusion and well-being, entertainment and leisure, economic development, civic engagement, and space

Fred Gladding, the Library Board Chair, expressed, "This report underscores the pivotal role CBPL plays in enriching our community and offers invaluable insights into how we can further cater to the needs of Brant residents. It upholds our accountability to our funders, the taxpayers, demonstrating that investments in the library generate tangible dividends."

The comprehensive "Valuing County of Brant Public Library Report" is now available for public perusal on the Library's official website and at all library branches. Visit today to gain a deeper understanding of the remarkable impact the County of Brant Public Library has on the community's well-being and prosperity.